National Lampoon's Van Wilder - The Rise of Taj

National Lampoon's Van Wilder: The Rise of Taj is a 2006 American sex comedy by Mort Nathan, a sequel to National Lampoon’s Van Wilder (2002), developed with a touch of college-buddy charm and comedic lunacy. Starring Kal Penn as the infamous Taj Mahal Badalandabad, along with Lauren Cohan, and Daniel Percival, this movie chronicles the hilarious journey of Taj from America to England to attend Camford University. The positions of Kal Penn from a supporting role in the original movie to this movie's protagonist, brings a fresh perspective and a new addition to National Lampoon’s comic universe.

After learning many life lessons under the wing of Van Wilder back at Coolidge College in the United States, Taj, overflowing with Van Wilder's philosophies, travels across the pond to England's prestigious Camford University to further his studies and also to teach his unique brand of party planning. Penn, best known for his role as Kumar in the Harold & Kumar series, certainly does not disappoint, bringing his characteristic charm to the British campus.

In a twist of events, Taj finds himself not in the ancestral mansion he was promised by the university but mistakenly assigned to the dilapidated barn known as "The Barn" – home to a crew of campus misfits. His co-habitants consists of Simon (Chris O'Dowd), Gethin (Anthony Cozens), and Sadie (Holly Davidson), plus Charlotte (Lauren Cohan) – an attractive and wealthy goddess of Camford's social scene.

Despite the initial disappointment, Taj's unerring optimism shines through, and he decides to make the best of his unfortunate situation. Adopting the leadership role, he teaches his new friends to unleash their true potential and overcome their social awkwardness. Together, they form the “Cock and Bulls,” a new social fraternity, revived from dusty history books and ready to challenge the arrogant, affluent, and socially superior fraternity – the "Fox and Hounds," led by the pompous Pip Everett (Daniel Percival). This showdown is not just about who can throw the most outrageous parties; there are much more at stake, including a coveted Hastings Cup that stands for campus supremacy.

Adding to the stake is the romantic tension that blooms between Charlotte and Taj, despite Charlotte being Pip's girlfriend. Lauren Cohan, now known for her role in the Walking Dead series, perfectly portrays the character of a reluctant love interest who is both charmed yet cautious about Taj's advances. Amidst all, Taj must use everything he learned from Van Wilder to navigate through these challenges and keep his team together.

In this dramatic yet comedic sequence of events, the movie is filled with slapstick episodes, flamboyant and outrageous party madness, and surprising elements of romance. Although "Rise of Taj" is a sequel, it maintains a standalone personality displaying a different aspect of the college experience, integrating the British sophistication with uncontrollable American party craziness. The slice of life in an English university and Taj's hilarious accent add a certain zest to the comedy.

With a mix of clever dialogue, some cheesy puns, and a decent dose of cringe humor, the film surely caters to the taste of those who appreciate the National Lampoon style of comedy. While filled with raunchy humor, the film also sneaks in a fair amount of heart, showcasing the importance of friendship, self-exploration, and stepping out of one's comfort zone.

Every cast member contributes greatly to the movie's overall appeal. Penn delivers a commendable lead performance, successfully bringing great depth to his character, and Cohan contrasts him beautifully, making their on-screen relationship enjoyable to watch. The supporting cast, especially those playing the members of the socially-challenged "Cock and Bulls," are each individualistic and interesting, delivering unique performances that help to keep viewers engaged throughout.

In conclusion, "National Lampoon's Van Wilder: The Rise of Taj" is a comedy sequel that flawlessly transitions its humor from its predecessor. Filled with high-spirited performances, crazy college antics, sparkling parties, and fundamental lessons, this coming-of-age film is a stereotypical National Lampoon fare that manages to capture a unique charm that makes it special. It's a comedy that offers a wild, jolly ride and plenty of laughs along the way for those looking to escape into a mix of British-American college humor.